12 June 2012

DIY / OMBRE SHIRT

I've had this Topshop denim shirt for AGES. It has faded so much so that it's almost white so I decided to Dip-Dye it. My Sister got me the dye recently and then I noticed this Guide to Ombring on llymlrs.com

1. Split the contents of your packet of dye into three containers - it doesn't need to be totally accurate. To make the dip dye ombre effect - this will make the dye more concentrated towards the bottom of the item.

2. Fill the large bowl/sink with the amount of water it recommends on the packet (mine said 6 litres). Add the of salt you need as stated on the packet and stir with a stick or a spoon. Then add one of the containers of dry dye mixture to the water and stir.

3. Soak the item you are going to dye in cold water and wring it out so the item is damp but not dripping. This will help the dye take to the fabric.

4. Now submerge about 2/3 of the item into the dye. It is much easier to hold if you put the item on a hanger. And be careful not to get dye on the section you don't want dyed. Hold the item for a few minutes so the dye can take to the fabric.

5. Remove the item from the bowl and add the second container of dye and mix. Then make your second dip but this time dip in 2/3 of the dyed area. Again leave for a few minutes for the dye to take.

6. Repeat step 5 with the last container of dye. This is going to be the part with the most concentrated amount of dye and will come out the darkest so just dip in a few inches.

7. Remove your item from the bowl and rinse thoroughly in cold water, try to keep the colour running away from the lightest area of the item as the dye can run into it on this step (again using a hanger helps). Make sure you get all the dye out and then wash and dry the item as usual.